We are experiencing a weekend that cannot be matched. It is “fall” but really feels like perfect summer weather. It is a gift. The Yarnery and Darn Knit Anyway are hosting a fall fiber event this afternoon at a farm, which sounds like a great way to knit and enjoy the outdoors!
I finally put in the time to finish up my Scatness Tunic. The knitting had been done for a few weeks but the finishing work remained. There is a tremendous amount of finishing to this project…and it is not your standard seaming, etc. You make buttons (which I had already done), add a fabric or ribbon facing to the front bands, and sew on snaps. I had to be in the mood to do it!
I enjoyed making this very much. The yarn is scrumptious: Jamieson’s Shetland Spindrift. The pattern was well written, but like many current patterns, the armhole depth seems skimpy to me and is too late to fix. 🙁
I did the Wheelhouse buttons as described in the book. I used one inch plastic rings which I knew would show through, so I first covered them with yarn held double and a standard buttonhole stitch:
The buttons are lightweight and super cute!!
I searched high and low for the right braided ribbon, and finding none resorted to fabric. I had finished the steeks my usual way (twice, but don’t ask!) but at the last minute decided to tuck them under the fabric lining. I used nylon snaps as suggested in the pattern. Not sure what I think of them but I am also not sure what would have been better.
I am just finishing up a Scatness Cowl based on the tunic pattern, which I will share later when it’s done. All in all, a great project and done in time for Rhinebeck! Woo Hoo!! 🙂
When you fell in love with the pattern at camp I was just not convinced. Now I am!! It turned out so much better than the pattern looked on paper. It is not only beautiful, it looks very wearable. Penny and I have been talking about the comfort factor in what we are knitting. Sometimes it is easy to have my head turned by something that it beautiful, but you find yourself fussing with it all the time. Now if I can figure out a way to add red to it 🙂
Comment by Linda — September 28, 2014 @ 11:34 am
A Work of Art (as usual). I hate skimpy armhole depths too. Makes it seem like the pattern was designed for a preteen. If it continues to bother you maybe you could email the designer (I’ve read her blog) and ask her for some suggestions. Along time ago, my very experienced LYS received a Scottish-designed, probably reversible, cardigan with the most spectacular collar which flipped easily from inside to outside allowing the neckline to lie totally flat as if it were on a hinge. No one could figure out the engineering. Which led me to believe that the Scots have tricks up their knitting sleeve that no one else knows about. So maybe she might have a solution. I sure would hope you could enjoy wearing this beautiful tunic for my times than just at Rhinebeck.
Comment by Chloe — September 28, 2014 @ 3:25 pm
…that was meant to read “many times” not “my times.” I proofread beforehand, honest.
Comment by Chloe — September 28, 2014 @ 3:28 pm
Just fabulous. Can’t wait to see this in person!
Comment by Susan — September 28, 2014 @ 9:18 pm
This is truly beautiful! I love everything about it and the buttons are so intriguing. This is why I love to read your blog – you two always have the most beautiful knitting projects. Thank you both so much for sharing your amazing knitting!
Comment by Barb — September 28, 2014 @ 10:08 pm
Love seeing it up close and personal. It is in the details isn’t it! Another beautiful knit.
Comment by Penny — September 28, 2014 @ 10:36 pm
If you continue to feel iffy about the snaps clear plastic snaps, a favorite of Kate’s, I know, try substituting bronze; I’m finding that they blend with more things than the plastic which I have tried twice and removed each time. They sell the bronze at Treadle Yard Goods.
I love the sweater. I complain more often about armholes and sleeve widths that are too spacious, but I sense that you are a taller person. I hope that in the yokes book that Kate Davies is writing now, that this is addressed, as many people have made complaints on the blog about the fit of yoked sweaters for those of us who are not slim and flat chested. (ahem). But this sweater is everything it thould be, and you should be the bell of Rhinebeck.
Comment by Ellen — September 29, 2014 @ 8:29 am
This is simply lovely! The buttons are the frosting on the cake. I will be looking for you at Rhinebeck. (looking, not stalking, I promise)
Your projects are always an inspiration to me and I am so thankful that you share them on your blog.
Blogless Mary Lou
Comment by Mary Lou — September 29, 2014 @ 10:40 am
Oh, yes, I know exactly what you mean about skimpy armholes. I hate skimpy armholes! Who wants a sweater strangling their armpits?!
Looks beautiful, though. I just added this pattern to my queue last week. So pretty.
Comment by Jennifer — September 30, 2014 @ 9:42 pm
I just started it!
Comment by surly — October 1, 2014 @ 7:31 pm
It’s exquisite! The buttons are amazing. It is all amazing. I’m jealous!!!!!!
Comment by Joanna — October 4, 2014 @ 12:57 am